Weaving
Thermoplastic composites save weight in rotorcraft aerostructure
This helicopter structure outdoes both metal and thermoset-composite alternatives.
Read More
Composites boon from hydraulic fracturing?
Hydraulic fracturing — commonly known as frac'ing — has become an efficient, if controversial, method for oil and gas extraction. Composite materials are helping pave the way in this very demanding application.
Read More
Inside a thermoplastic composites hotbed
As production of the A350 XWB ramps up, so does manufacture of the thermoplastic fuselage clips the plane requires. HPC sees how it’s done.
Read More
Automotive, going forward?
CT editor-in-chief Jeff Sloan asks when, if and how composites professionals will be ready to meet the challenges of significant use of carbon fiber composites in automobiles.
Read More
Fabric core: Reinforced marble façades for significantly lighter weight
Natural stone specialist Kunovar & Kamini (Ljubljana, Slovenia), recently adopted trademarked Parabeam 3-D glass fabric (Parabeam BV, Helmond, The Netherlands), to reinforce flat marble façades and curved column cladding.
Read More
A350 & A400M wing spars: A study in contrasts
In three short years, GKN Aerospace has taken its wing spar manufacturing strategies to new heights by dramatically reducing part weight, process complexity and production-cycle duration.
Read More
Compression molding mass out of aircraft interiors
Continuous carbon fiber-reinforced thermoplastic lightweights smoke detector pan and slashes production cycle time.
Read More
Co-infused stringers and carbon fiber at Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show
Midnight Express Boats takes almost 4,000 lb out of its newest model, the 39S, with a switch to infusion and better optimized laminates.
Read More
Structural preform technologies emerge from the shadows
Not yet in full production, with one exception, all are aimed at accelerating composite part manufacture at fast automotive rates.
Read More
Wind blades: Pi preforms increase shear web failure load
Easily coinfused structural joint increases ultimate strength and fatigue life, offering solutions for designers as blades get longer and move offshore.
Read More